M. R. Radha facts for kids

Madras Rajagopala Radhakrishnan Naidu (born April 14, 1907 – died September 17, 1979), known by his stage name M. R. Radha, was a famous Indian actor and politician. He was given the special title "Nadigavel" by E.V.R. Periyar. This title means "Spearhead of acting" or "torchbearer," showing how talented he was. He started his career on stage and later acted in many movies from the 1930s to the 1970s. After his movie career, he returned to his first love, the theatre.

His Amazing Acting Career

M. R. Radha was a very popular theatre artist. He performed in more than 5,000 stage shows! He started acting when he was just 10 years old. At first, he played small parts. But soon, he became so good that plays were written just for him.

Radha became very famous with his stage play called Ratha Kanneer (which means "Blood Tears"). His acting in the 1954 movie version of this play, directed by Krishnan-Panju, made him even more well-known across Tamil Nadu. Everyone started to recognize his amazing talent.

A Star on Stage and Screen

M. R. Radha was known for playing many different types of roles. He could play both bad guys (villains) and funny characters (comedic roles). After the 1950s, movie directors often created roles especially for him. He was so good that sometimes he even stood out more than the main actors like MGR and Sivaji Ganesan.

He was also an active member of the Self-Respect Movement. This was a movement that encouraged people to have pride in themselves and question old traditions. M. R. Radha was known for his strong views against traditional religious beliefs. Later in his career, he even acted in some movies about Hindu gods, like Velum Mayilum Thunai.

His Family and Legacy

M. R. Radha had a large family. He was a father to several children, including three sons and at least six daughters. Many of his children also became actors, following in his footsteps.

His sons, M. R. R. Vasu and Radha Ravi, both became actors. M. R. R. Vasu was a leading character actor for many years. Radha Ravi is also a well-known actor today. Two of his daughters, Radhika and Nirosha, also became successful actresses. Radhika is also a producer. Nirosha is known for her supporting roles in movies.

His Later Years

M. R. Radha passed away on September 17, 1979, at the age of 72. He died at his home in Thiruchirappalli. His funeral was one of the biggest in South India, with over 200,000 people coming to pay their respects. This showed how much he was loved and admired by his fans.

Films of M. R. Radha